By Eileen Fleming
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wwno/local-wwno-885542.mp3
New Orleans, La. – Those footballs were especially treasured souvenirs for those who managed to catch one thrown by Saints quarterback Drew Brees. The Super Bowl MVP and his wife, Brittany, were king and queen of the lead-off float.
They were closely escorted from a limousine, through the crowd and on to the float. His sudden appearance thrilled parade-goers.
He and his wife and fellow riders tossed beads and doubloons to the fans, with Brees himself going long a few times with the tiny football throws. Before heading off, he grabbed the reigns on his chariot and shouted out the start.